Nikon D5300 Review

Nikon's 'advanced beginner' DSLR, the D5300 takes the D5200's place between the entry-level D3200 and the enthusiast-targeted D7100 in the company's APS-C lineup. The D5300 offers a 24MP sensor (like its 24MP APS-C stablemates), an articulated rear LCD, and more physical controls than the D3200, but without the twin-dial interface and professional-grade AF system of the decidedly higher-market (and much more customizable) D7100.

Both visually and ergonomically the D5300 is a near-clone of its predecessor (it's fractionally lighter and a tiny bit smaller), but under the hood it is a stronger camera in a couple of important ways. The D5300's 24MP sensor lacks an anti-aliasing filter, which - consistent with our experiences testing the D7100 and D800E - gives it the edge in terms of resolution over the D5200. The difference is subtle (especially with a kit zoom attached), but it's always nice to see improvements to critical image quality potential, especially in mid-range models.

The D5300 also offers a beefed-up video mode, which is now capable of true 1080/60p HD video. This, plus the slightly widened (3.2" compared to 3") fully-articulated 1.04 million-dot LCD screen, should mean that the D5300 will be attractive to videographers as well as stills photographers. Easy to miss, but useful features include built-in Wi-Fi and GPS - both firsts for Nikon's DSLR lineup. Battery life gets a boost too: according to CIPA figures the D5300 offers an endurance of 600 shots, compared to 500 from the D5200. Remember, though, that this figure does not take features like Wi-Fi or GPS into account, and using them will shorten the amount of time you can spend shooting.

The Nikon D5300 can easily be classified as an iterative update, providing only a handful of features that weren't present in its D5200 predecessor. It speaks volumes about the D5200 that adding only a few more things amounts to an APS-C DSLR with 24 megapixels, no optical low pass filter, 1080/60p HD video recording, a fully articulated display and built-in Wi-Fi. In terms of on-paper specifications, the the D5300 looks 'fully loaded.'

The main feature we really wish it offered is a touchscreen LCD. We've come to appreciate being able to perform certain actions by touch on competing cameras, particularly things like exposure compensation and AF point placement in live view mode. We'd also like to see twin control dials - something Nikon has traditionally saved for its more expensive models, but some of its competitors offer at this price point.

Nikon D5300 key features

24.1MP DX format CMOS sensor, without OLPF

EXPEED 4 processing

ISO 100-12,800 standard, up to 25,600 expanded

5 fps continuous shooting

39-point AF system, 9 sensors cross-type

2016-pixel RGB metering sensor

1080p60 video recording, built-in stereo mic

1.04M dot 3.2" vari-angle LCD monitor

Key specs compared to the Nikon D5200

The table below shows how the major specifications of the D5300 compare against the D5200. As you can see, Nikon has updated a couple of core specifications, but the differences aren't huge.

Nikon D5300

Nikon D5200

Sensor resolution (type)

24MP CMOS (no OLPF)

24MP CMOS

Autofocus System

39 AF points (9 cross-type)

ISO sensitivity

100-12,800 (H1 expansion up to 25,600 equiv)

100-6400 (H2 expansion up to 25,600 equiv)

Display size / resolution

3.2", 1.04M-dot vari-angle

3", 921k-dot vari-angle

Maximum framerate (DX mode)

5 fps

Movie Mode

1080 60p/30p

1080 60i/30p

Battery life (CIPA)

600 shots

500 shots

Dimensions

125 × 98 × 76 mm
(4.9 × 3.9 × 3.0 in)

129 x 98 x 78 mm
(5.1 x 3.9 x 3.1 in)

Weight (without battery)

480 g (16.9 oz)

505 g (17.8 oz)

Compared to the Canon EOS Rebel T5i

Compared to its nearest competitor, Canon's EOS Rebel T5i, the Nikon D5300 offers a higher resolution sensor, more AF points, and the ability to shoot 1080/60p video (as opposed to 30p). It also includes built-in Wi-Fi and GPS. The D5300 is slightly smaller than the Canon in all dimensions, and a little lighter.

The Nikon D5300 is slightly smaller than the Canon T5i (the larger kit zoom mounted on the Nikon in this shot makes that a little hard to appreciate) but has a slightly more substantial hand-grip which contributes greatly to its feeling of solidity in the hand. Whereas the Canon's control dial (for exposure adjustment) is on the top-plate, the D5300's dial can be found on the rear of the camera (see below).

From the rear, the D5300 and T5i are both dominated by their 3.2" articulating LCD screens, and you can see the D5300's control dial at the upper right of the body. Button placement isn't exactly the same, as you'd expect, but both are representative of the prevailing trends in modern enthusiast DSLR design. The most important difference, really, is that the T5i's rear screen is touch-sensitive.

The T5i does have a couple of tricks up its sleeve, though - while both cameras have 3.2", 1.04 million-dot LCD screens, the T5i's is touch-sensitive, which we've come to really appreciate, especially when working in movie mode and live view. The T5i also features a 'Hybrid' AF system, which allows for faster and more positive (less hesitant) AF in live view and movie mode, plus AF tracking.

Nikon D5300

Canon Rebel T5i

Sensor resolution (type)

24MP CMOS (no OLPF)

18MP 'Hybrid CMOS'

Autofocus System

39 AF points (9 cross-type)

9 AF points (all cross-type)

ISO sensitivity

100-12800 (max 25,600 equiv)

100-12800 (max 25,600 equiv)

Display size / resolution

3.2", 1.04M-dot vari-angle

3.0", 921k-dot vari-angle (touch-sensitive)

Maximum framerate (DX mode)

5 fps

Movie Mode

1080 60p/30p

1080 30p

Battery life (CIPA)

600 shots

440 shots

Dimensions

125 × 98 × 76 mm
(49.2 × 3.9 × 3.0 in)

133 x 100 x 79 mm
(5.2 x 3.9 x 3.1in)

Weight (without battery)

480 g (16.9 oz)

580 g (20.4 oz)

Compared to the rest

The D5300 may look good in comparison with its predecessor and Canon's equivalent model, but there are other options worth considering, beyond the two big brands. In terms of DSLRs, Ricoh's Pentax K-50 offers twin control dials, a weather sealed body and a larger viewfinder. If you're willing to look at mirrorless models, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 offers twin dials, a touch-screen, built-in Wi-Fi and an electronic viewfinder, all in a package considerably smaller than the Nikon.

Panasonic, Fujifilm and Samsung also make competitive models for a similar price, so it's worth considering which capabilities you do and don't need, before committing to one of the big two.

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I have a D5300 (new) and used Nikkor AF-S 18-200 VR (first version). I bought this camera because I was not happy with my Lumix GH1 low light stills capabilities AND because - reading THIS review - I thought the video capabilities should be OK for me as amateur point and shoot family father.

But for me (no rigs, no external mic) it is unusable because the autofocus is too loud for the internal mic and because the focus is not smooth (needs several iteration to focus). And I do not want to focus manually on my moving children ..

Example: If I move slowly around a room (in continuos AF mode) the AF will be in continuos motion, needing several iterations to focus (on an object 3meters away you can see the focus scale on the lens going at least two times between infinity and 1meter until it focusses) , and always generating that zzzt - zzzt - noise that is messing up the video.

Hello.Someone could help me , I 'm new to the world of cameras and I am torn between the Nikon D5300 and Canon Rebel T5i , I would like to take landscape photos, portraits , sports , light effects , etc ... Which is better night photographs ? Which of the two could get a variety of pictures and effects?And that give lasting are each?Would greatly appreciate your opinion out of this big question .

Till date I have contended with superzooms like Sony HX100V or Nikon Coolpix P600. The telephoto shots while Birding in AF could not satisfy me in terms of their quality. Planning to start Birding with a real DSLR. If I go for Nikon D5300, which single lens should I buy for both sedentary and flying birds (apart from a kit lens like 18-55 mm)? Is the focus tracking ability of this camera good?

In response to those interested in the Nikkor 28-300mm/f3.5-5.6 lens, I will say it is a fine lens but weighs just under 2 lbs (30 oz.) and costs almost $1000. Compared to the nice, lightweight $119 Nikkor 55-200mm/f3.5-5.6 VR, it's really a no-brainer for me.

If you're more comfortable having the U.S warranty, you can buy the identical camera with 2 year U.S. warranty for about $200 more. Regarding lenses, if I had to choose only one lens, it would undoubtably be the 35mm/f1.8 VR. This fixed (prime) lens gives you the wide aperture to shoot in low light with no flash. It produces photos that are most like what the eyes see in real life.

I chose the 55-200mm/f3.5-5.6 VR as a good "carry around" lens for shooting short, medium, and longer fields of view - and of course that lovely "bokeh" effect (blurry background, sharp subject). Also, importantly, this lens weighs about 11.4 oz - half the weight (and price) of the 18-200mm. 18-200mm is about 1.2 lbs/20 oz. and about $550 retail. Incidentally, the 55-200 is actually 82.5-300mm (full format equivalent).

I've never been happier with a new camera, than I am with my Nikon D5300. I've been a shutterbug for decades, and there is little reason to spend more for an all-around fantastic camera. Ignore categories like entry level/pro, etc when considering a camera of this quality. It's the photographer and lenses that produce great photos.

I got the camera body for $499 (with no U.S. warranty) from RedTag Camera in Brooklyn, NY. After adding a Nikon/Nikkor 35mm/f1.8 VR prime lens ($139) and a 32gb card, filters, extra battery, macro/zoom attachments, camera bag, etc -- then a refurbished 55-200mm VR Nikkor lens from the Nikon site ($119), my total was $850.Continued...

With a small difference of $100 Nikon d7100 makes a better choice. The Nikon d5300 need a price drop to justify buying it. In the end you are buying a camera and it has to have significant changes between the Nikon d5200 which has almost the same specifications.

I traded in a Sony A6000 for a Nikon D5300 and never looked back. The lenses available for Nikon Dx are in a totally different league than those for e-mount. Between my lightweight Nikon 18-300mm f/6.3 and Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 I have both daylight and night conditions covered in two perfectly convenient solutions. With the A6000 I had to switch lenses more for lesser quality results.

Needing help please. I'm considering the D5300 but don't want to constantly change lenses, especially in dusty environments. It was suggested that I get the D5300 with a 16-300 Tamron lens. Has anyone had experience with this. Can I use all the needed features of the camera with the lens? Thank you.

I've recently purchased the D5300 upgrading from the Nikon D90, and I'm loving it! I've been using a 25-300mm Nikkor Lens and haven't changed it since removing the original Kit lens. I didn't realize how much I really appreciate having the built in WiFi feature either, but if it matters to you, It works great! The jump up in pixels from my D90 is noticeable and the additional functions that the D5300 has is fun.Hope this helps give some perspective!

Hi Bigdawglor -- With the built-in WiFi on the D5300, are you able to see a Live view on your laptop or tablet while you are composing a photo? When I work with a food photo stylist, she would like to see the scene on the larger screen before the photo is taken so she can make adjustments in styling. Thanks!

I currently have a Nikon D90 and considering the D5300. Although I like the D90, the higher megapixel appeals to me. Is the expense worth it? I use the camera for travel and family events. The reviews of the D7100 are impressive, but difficult to justify the expense for my purpose. I have no interest in the video aspect of the camera.

Can anyone enlighten me as I am going to purchase a new DSLR for me. I am a motorcyclist who ride a lot in mountains and countryside, and require a good camera which can shoot good pics. I have in my mind a Canon D60 (Old and proven but also heard a lot about its durability) and a Nikon D5300 a latest in the series. I used to use a point and shoot camera before but its not sufficient anymore. I also checked and found that Canon has a inbuilt motor and Nikon don't have so lens with motors are required for Nikon. Please advise.

Nikon cameras are as good if not better than the competition. I have had the D90, D600 and am currently using the D5100 as my everyday camera and the D800 for more serious photo. The D5300 follows the D5200, hence, is the third iteration to my D5100.

Without knowing your experience in photography and your budget to this purchase. I limit answer SPECIFICALLY to your question:

YES, the Nikon D5300 is a VERY GOOD camera.

If you provide relevant information about your photography experience, your intended use, then I would help you decide the alternatives.

I already own a Bridge camera, namely Sony DSC HX300 (with 50X zoom) that takes pretty good and impressive pics. However, I am looking for a DSLR now. I don't have a massive budget, and I mainly take nature and wildlife shots. I don't really do portraits or fashion or food.

Technically, I am not great when it comes to a DSLR. I need a good camera that offers a good low light condition.

Buying our first DSLR for a big trip of oz next year. We are leaning towards the Nikon D5300 over the Canon 700D, but during research found a comment that the colours in Nikon pics are not good, particularly for landscapes as the green is terrible. Can someone that has a Nikon clarify this point and any other facts we should consider? Any feedback is welcome. Thanks!

More likely than not, you might have bought your DSLR by now. If not, my experience with Nikon d5100 is nothing but great. D5300 is the third iteration to D5100. Friends who saw my D5100 bought their D5200 and D5300. I do not know anything about the Canon D700D but can assure you that you would not go wrong with either camera.

Since pictures are worth thousand words, you way views my post at Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pinoy.inohio/photos

I just bought a D5300 and it's a perfect camera except for lack of in built motor, CLS (commander mode), and Auto FP sync. I can't get over this whole "going pro" statements I'm seeing below. I just want the lightest camera with full features. D7100 doesn't even offer wifi, gps, articulated screen, or 60p video. What's the upgrade path if I need all these 4 things for someone who's used a DSLR since 2008? I hate how Nikon calls this camera a beginner's tool. It's absolutely ridiculous. I really, really need 60p video for slow motion shots. To upgrade to full frame would not make sense. To go to D7100 is not going "pro", it's a downgrade for me. People here are so dense, and don't look at the big picture. D7100 is using a expeed 3 processor with slower processing. My D5300 can skim through pictures in milliseconds. Nikon, please rethink the upgrade path in your camera line. It makes no sense as of July 28th, 2014.

@shirmphead - NO, you are NOT a "shirmphead". Your comment make very good points. Before I buy ANY major purchase, I research the items and alternatives. My experience in photography dates back to late 1950s. My experience with Digital photography started in 2001 with a simple Point & Shoot. Bought my first state of the art serious DSLR in 2004, the Nikon D90. At that time, it was considered a PRO camera. My next Nikon purchase maybe called either an upgrade or downgrade, I don't care either way, was the D5100. Followed by a D600 and now a D800. The D5100 is my everyday camera. Despite all the very good features and very good results this D5100 has going for it, it is still a mid-level DSLR.

With that said, I am not offended by the terms "beginners camera", entry level, mid-level, enthusiast level, pro-level designation. I suggest you shrug-off the terms because it does not mean anything. What matter is the enjoyment you get from making the shots that matters to you.

YES but only in MANUAL mode. Caveat: If the lens has the meter mating fork, remove that fork.

I have Nikkor lenses circa 1976 and I use those lenses on my Nikon D5100, D600 and D800 - - - all in MANUAL mode only. Goggle NIKON lens compatibly and you will see matrix of Nikkor lenses and Nikon bodies compatibility table.

The letter D following the f/number suggests your lens has a hole that house the slot of the screw head that mate with the spade of the high-end Nikon DSLR. I don't think the D5300 has that spade to drive the autofocus gears of the lens.

I tried the Canon 700d, Nikon D7100 and others but decided on a D5300 after much deliberation. I went for the 18-140 as a size/range compromise. The camera has been great and has exceeded my expectations. It is nicely weighty and feels better made than the competition. The lack of buttons compared to the D7100 and touch screen compared to the Canon has not bothered me. I use the camera in the 'old fashioned' way and have it up to my face most of the time. I find the button position to be ideal. I have two fingers on the right side top for shutter and exposure adjustment and on the left side I have one on the FN button which is assigned to ISO which I can adjust on the fly. I use a 2 sec regularly in low light but the camera is set to 10. It isn't in the manual but I found it in a menu and 2 secs is now my default. The low light performance at high ISOs is better than I expected. Check the DXO Mark website for comparisons with other makes. Overall I am very pleased with my D5300.

I am looking to get a new camera preferably Nikon or Canon. I'm looking at the D5300 and liking it so far, however I'm very new to these kinds of cameras and wondering what a good lens would be for it? One not terribly expensive, but still good quality. You can reply at Kelbi_Princess93@yahoo.com

The best lens for a crop frame camera like a Nikon D5300 is the Sigma 18-35 f/1.8. It is not exactly cheap but not that expensive either, below $1,000. It will give you very sharp photos. If you need more telephoto power you can go for the new Nikon 70-200 f/4.0. Don't waste your money on cheap lenses. This two lenses will be enough for most situation.

WHY DOES EVERY ONE GET THIS WRONG? The D5300 has TWO function buttons, not one. The second one is located on the front left, underneath the flash command button. That way, shutter speed, ISO and aperture are all easily accessible.

I want to get the Nikon D5300 but I'm not sure what lens to get since its a DX-format camera. I would definitely love if someone can help me chose a good lens to go with the camera. Also, I would love to know if a non-DX lens would work well with the camera. I'm not a fan of DX lens. Thank you in advance!

I have the 18-140, I use it on a D7000 and it is a very good lens. If you buy it with the D5300 (kit) you'll save a couple of hundred dollars as it retails for $599. I also have the 40mm 2.8 micro (macro) and it is a very sharp lens, of course it is not as flexible as the 18-140 but optically much better.

These are the lenses I finally decided upon: 1. For everyday, the new Sigma 1.8 18 to 35. I have had no trouble with the autofocus on this lens. Compared to every other lens out there, this lens delivers just incredibly sharp detail, and its ability to go to 1.8 f makes the camera useable for indoor low light shots. $799 2. For wide angle get the tokina 11-16 2.8 that just came out. $525. These two lenses will take your photography to levels you won't believe until you see. I have not yet found a long end lens that equals these. For the time being, the 18-140 nikon is probably the best choice. (I have it but rarely use it because of how much I like the sigma.)

I am graduating from a bridge camera to a DSLR. Have been a hobby photographer for many years primarily doing landscape photography but I do it only when on a vacation that would be twice a year. I was a little confused whether to buy a Canon 700D or a Nikon D5300. I have always used Canon cameras before and after going thru many reviews comparing the two cameras I am not wiser. I also understand that once one buys a DSLR one continues to buy cameras of that family so that it can save money on lenses. Assuming that the quality of photos is not much different in the two cameras is the touch screen in 700D so useful that I should buy a Canon or the WIFI-GPS so important in the Nikon. As there anything else that help me decide between the two. Your advice would be most helpful.Tx. You can reply directly on my mail - drkpsanghvi@gmail.com

Hi Kishore, I am still under the same confusion as you are. I havent bought anything yet. So finally which one did you buy? Please also let me know your decision ... and you can reply me directly at chandansehgal@gmail.com

Is there live exposure preview in manual mode? I have very limited eyesight and have difficulty dependinding upon metering, but can see enough to see changes in light and adjusting dof, shutter and iso to specific needs of image.Thanks much.

Just received my D5300 after damaging my D5100. The GPS and WiFi were two features as well as the increase of almost 8 mgp I get. The price of buying it was also a plus since I am a student and short funds to really invest in other professional models. SO far after spending two hours with it are really pleased. I chose the grey so I could easily tell the two apart quickly. I love the grip.

My first question was whether in Lr the GPS information will be in the detail of the meta data, I won't know until I get to that point. The display on the screen was very impressive and getting the settings the same as my D5100, which makes me comfortable is my first hurdle. I prefer outdoor photography and look forward to comparing it to my D5100 once I get it fixed. In the last 2 1/2 years I have taken over 260K images and I need reliable camera gear, so far I am very pleased with the D5300. I just need better lens.

This review was good, but the D5300 should have received the Gold award.Almost no other camera body for under $1,000 gives you more. In addition, I'm tired of reviewers criticizing Nikon ergonomics/handling. Nikon ergonomics/handling are excellent.

Noted above in your conclusion you stated- "warm and fuzzy connection with the camera that we'd like to feel..." I'm in the market looking for a new DSLR and I've been trying out various cameras and I literally picked up a D5300 and started to play with it and it was a joy to use. I found the ergonomics/handling as good as the Canon T5i if not better and you gave the T5i a higher rating in handling/ergonomics. Your objectivity needs improvement. In addition, a touch screen is not such a big deal. I owned a Canon S120 (I returned my S120 due to a problem with the battery in video mode) with a touch screen and the touch screen added a very minor handling/ergonomic improvement over my S95.

I agree with every statement in this comment. I love my 5300. In fact I like shooting with it better than with my D600, which is much bigger especially when you add the larger ff lenses. And the image quality is just as good, except in super low light. Most of the reviewers complaints about ergonomics are just what you get used to...don't impact image quality. With one exception: The live view slow magnification makes close focus a chore, and if you don't have plenty of time you just lose the shot. On this, I am not complaining about the features that Nikon has chosen not to add. I am complaining about the sub par function of an important feature they did include. They should fix it. The good news is that the available image quality is just unequalled in an APS-c camera, and the excellent 39 point autofocus the flip screen and other features provide you the ability to achieve it(with better lenses). Nikon has done itself proud.

On the specification page the D5300 is listed as having an optical viewfinder magnification of 0.82x while on page 3. Body and Design it says it has an optical viewfinder magnification of only 0.52x. The illustration on page three also seems to illustrate a magnification of 0.52x. Am I missing something?

Many thanks to Allison Johnson for explaining to me that manufacturers use a 50 mm lens on their crop sensor cameras to calculate viewfinder magnification. In order to compare cameras with different size sensors DP Review takes sensor size into account and therefore provides a different number. The number is approximately equal to the manufacturer's viewfinder magnification divided by the crop factor.

For a review that rates the camera so highly, the wording is such that virtually every statement is "it does this well BUT" and then a demerit of some type. Reading it, I get the distinct impression the reviewer didn't like the camera. I've owned a number of Nikons and just added this to my group. I find it to be an excellent choice!

Perhaps the reviewer is like so many people on the Internet - even the slightest difference is rated as something barely tolerable. His comment about not being able to use the command dial in menus is a perfect example. Is it really that much more trouble to use the cursor?

Every single feature is treated this way. It works BUT it could have been better. It makes the review seem very negative and had I read it before purchasing, it might have influenced me to look at another body. I have a good amount of money in Nikon mount lenses, so that helps me make decisions. I don't want fanboy reviews but this sort of thing is the worst.

I went with the D7100. I jumped from a Canon T3i and its a huge learning curve and well worth it. In my opinion. If you plan on going pro and you have the money for the D7100, go for it. Just shop around until you find the deal you want.The D7100 is a whole different animal when it comes to how it performs and how you use it. But if you have the basics down and you understand what you need to do to get the shots you want then all you will have to learn is how to get to those functions on the camera. In the end, i have a lot to learn but in my mind it is well worth it because I will be training myself on a damn good camera.

I went with the D5300 because of the articulating LCD. you can adjust the screen to avoid glare, and use objects to stabilze for better pictures. But the d7100 focus motor in the body is faster and it has lens fine tuning: better for a pro. Starting new and going on a safari, take the Nikor 18-300. Nailing the zoom will usually yield better pictures than cropping. Changing lenses in the dusty savanna not good for camera and you may miss the shot. Take also one good 1.8 or better, prime for low light. The Nikor 1.8 35mm is the obvious choice, but for more money the Sigma 18-35 is a 1.8 with prime clarity that I now use every day.

I agree that the ability to rotate the LCD was a reason for buying the D5300 after having the D5100. Your observation about lenses is dead on but I still prefer a fixed lens and another reason I now have three camera bodies with my three favorite lenses. I also like what Sigma has to offer as for quality lenses.

If you shoot in Auto mode and don't like to constantly change settings, the D5300 is going to give you the same quality image and will be lighter and cheaper. If you like to be more involved in the process the D7100 will be more enjoyable. Sensor rating is about the same so image quality is very similar.

Given the choice of a Canon 60D, a Sony A77, a Nikon D7000 or a D5300 for the same price the older cameras are clear winners IMO. I'd rather buy older higher end technology than brand new lower end. Cameras today aren't any better than those from 2-3 years ago. It's all hype from the manufacturers to get you to waste your money.

Yup, agree. The D7100 is not light years ahead of my D7000. In fact, I see no reason to update my body to a D7100 - I don't think it offers anything that would change the way I photograph things. Nice glass - that would definitely change how I photograph things.

I'm in the process of moving up to DSLR from Bridge and what I don't see is folks commenting on the advantages of the swivel/tilt LCD. The availability of that feature on the D5300 is almost enough to make me consider it in lieu of the D7100. Once you've used that feature you'll never want to go back to a fixed LCD for high/low/around-the-corner shots! Really nice when you've got the camera on a low tripod and don't want to lay down in the dirt to line the shot up too! Sure wish it was on the 7100 and that would be a slam-dunk.

Couldn't agree more. Especially for "fence post shooters" like me who don't carry a tripod but who anchor the camera on something to get a clear shot, it's critical. Also angling the screen frequently helps to see the LCD where glare otherwise make it unusable. I also like the right thumb position of the the plus and minus keys for close focus and the review key for quickly reviewing images.

IMO, the tilt/swivel thing is nice, but rendered not very effective because of poor live view performance. If live view had better AF performance - it might be worth it. Honestly, I hate to say it, but if you want a body that has tilt/swivel and good all around live view performance - you might have to go with another brand - like a Canon 70D, or something from m4/3.

True. On the other hand, The Sigma 1.8 18-35 zoom works great with the camera, and in fact when you get the extra lens optimization kit, you can fine tune the lens to the camera, as you can a number of the other recent Sigma lenses. That makes the lens more compatible with this camera than the Nikon lenses, since the fine tune feature for Nikon cameras/lenses is not included in the D5XXX cameras.

Reading the review of the D5300 it appears that the camera does not adjust changes in aperture if you shoot manually in Live View mode. At least not until you take a shot.

Can anyone tell me (perhaps someone that has this camera) what happens when you use Live View in Shutter Priority mode? The review is a little grey here and you could be forgiven for thinking that you can't actually use it - if the camera lacks a separate aperture motor how does it then compensate for changes in light when in SP mode?

The D3100 does it, as does the D800 so surely I am reading this the wrong way?

The motor is for focus, not aperture. An "AF" (AF-D) lens will set exposure, including aperture, on a non-motor D40 to D5300 body. Just not focus. Now that AF-S lenses probably offer what you need, and are the best value in all lenses, it's only an issue with not having AF with the fine old "AF" lenses. That, and it puts you with G lenses. Those have no manual aperture ring, requiring clumsy menu setting, of pro manual work.

Nikon really should make a D610 type camera, the size of a D5300, or smaller. Smaller motor included. After all, this is 2014. This would answer the size question, with mirror-less.

Nikon desperately needs to do two things. Fix rolling shutter, and manual control with HD video, on their better still photo centric DSLR's, *and* they need to develop a better full frame mirror-less system, with an adapter, for F-Mount lens owners. That absolutely must include better, faster, bigger EVF only, and phase detect beating AF-C tracking improvement.

I'm not sure why everyone thinks that you need 1000fps second to shoot sports. I brought a D5300 and D3300 to a paid sporting event tonight. Worked fine, as I expected it to.

These entry-level cameras offer more features than the pro cameras of less than 10 years ago.

I have faster pro cameras, but these little DX things are so good I end up grabbing them a lot of the time. I shot pro wrasslin' tonight and I had complete faith in these two cheap cameras that I was willing to bring them to a corporate shoot.

Any DLSR in Nikon's current line-up is more than enough to tackle sports for any photographer worth his salt.